Learn About Psychiatrists: Conditions They Treat and When to see one?

What is a Psychiatrist? 

Psychiatrists are doctors who specialize in treating mental, addictive, and emotional disorders. They order diagnostic tests, prescribe medications, and use psychotherapy to help patients and their family members deal with these disorders and diseases. They often work with other doctors and specialists to help come up with the best treatment option for their patients.

How does a doctor become a Psychiatrist?

To become a psychiatrist, a person must first complete an undergraduate program. They must then attend medical school and graduate from an accredited program. They must then complete at least three years of training in psychiatry. Before a psychiatrist can practice, they must also complete a residency at a hospital or clinic, where they practice their skills under the supervision of an experienced psychiatrist. Psychiatrists must also pass licensing and certification programs.

What types of illnesses do Psychiatrists treat?

Psychiatrists treat several different illnesses that affect the mind and emotions. The diseases and illnesses they treat are somewhat complex and can affect the patients significantly. Some of the most common illnesses include:

• Anxiety disorders
• Mood disorders
• Psychotic disorders
• Impulse control problems
• Addictions problems
• Eating disorders
• Personality disorders
• Obsessive-compulsive disorders
• Post-traumatic stress disorder

What are the diagnostic tests and procedures ordered by a Psychiatrist?

Many mental disorders and illnesses are hard to diagnose, and it takes a take a lot of testing to determine the actual cause of a patient’s symptoms. In some cases, psychiatrists have to rule out other illnesses to come to determine the actual disease. Some common diagnostic tests used by psychiatrists include:

• Blood tests
• Drug tests
• Personality tests
• ADHD tests
• Sleep testing
• Scoff test

What are the different types of Psychiatrists?

There are several types of psychiatrists, and each one helps a certain type of patient or treats a certain type of disorder. Some of the distinct types of psychiatrists include:

• Adult psychiatrist
• Child psychiatrist
• Addiction psychiatrist
• Forensic psychiatrist
• Consult liaison psychiatrist
• Geriatric psychiatrist
• Neuropsychiatrist

How do Psychiatrists treat mental health problems?

Psychiatrists use many different treatment methods to help their patients. They can prescribe medications, but they are also skilled at therapy and counseling. Some common mental health treatments include:

• Oral Medications: Psychiatrists can prescribe medication that can help with mood disorders and mental disorders.
• Therapy: Psychiatrists can help their patients talk about their problems and deal with emotional and mental issues in healthy ways.
• Addiction Rehabilitation: Psychiatrists can prescribe medications and offer counseling to patients who are suffering from drug or alcohol addiction.
• Shock Therapy: Electric shocks can be given to the patient to help reset the brain circuits and treat some mental illnesses.
• Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to help reset the patient’s brain circuits and treat some disorders.
• Behavior Therapy: This therapy can help people who struggle with addiction, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

When to see a Psychiatrist? 

It can sometimes be hard to know when to see a psychiatrist. Many people who suffer from mental illness aren’t aware of it. Doctors often refer patients to psychiatrists if they feel it is necessary. Some other reasons to see a psychiatrist include:

• Addiction
• Suicidal thoughts
• Thoughts of self-harm
• Thoughts of violence
• Delusions
• Hallucinations
• Mood instability
• Isolation
• Behavior changes
• Cognitive decline
• Body image problems

Resources:

American Psychiatric Association.